Punjab Farmers Prepare for Protest in Chandigarh

Chandigarh- Farmers from Punjab are preparing to stage an indefinite demonstration in Chandigarh, the shared capital of Punjab and Haryana, mirroring their previous protests in Delhi. Under the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) banner, multiple farm unions are converging on the city to press their long-standing demands.

In response to the impending protest, Chandigarh Police have implemented stringent security measures, sealing city entry points and advising commuters to avoid certain routes. Joginder Singh Ughrahan, President of Bharatiya Kisan Union (Ekta-Ughrahan), has called on protesters to maintain peaceful tactics, urging them to avoid blocking roads, highways, and railway tracks.

The SKM has leveled accusations against the Punjab government of suppressing the right to protest. Their key demands include:

• Implementation of a comprehensive agricultural policy

• Land distribution for landless laborers and farmers

• Comprehensive debt waiver for farmers and agricultural workers

Tensions escalated after negotiations between the Punjab government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, and farm leaders collapsed on Monday. Following the failed talks, raids were reportedly conducted at the residences of farmer leaders, including Ughrahan.

According to Ughrahan, the discussions were progressing smoothly until the Chief Minister abruptly left, citing an eye infection. He claimed that when asked about the planned March 5 protest, the CM appeared frustrated and encouraged the farmers to proceed with their demonstration.

Chief Minister Mann, however, emphasized that his administration remains open to dialogue, stating that his "doors are always open for talks with farmers" while cautioning against public inconvenience.

Opposition parties have strongly criticized the state government's handling of the farmer's protest. Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President, accused Mann of arrogance and dismissive behavior towards the SKM. Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Bikram Singh Majithia reminded the Chief Minister of his pre-election promises, including pledges to prevent farm suicides and double farm income.